Banka Kombëtare Tregtare (BKT) has officially reopened its historic branch in Korçë after a complete restoration and renovation. The building, which first opened on November 28, 1926, now combines elements of the city’s heritage with modern banking standards.
The inauguration ceremony on October 2 was attended by members of BKT’s Board of Directors, senior executives and employees, the Deputy Mayor and Prefect of Korçë, clients from both individual and business sectors, as well as various partners.
During the event, Mehmet Usta, Chairman of the BKT Board of Directors, said: “The building of our branch in Korçë, restored today to its original appearance, is more than just a physical renovation; it is a symbol of the spirit of resilience and progress of Korçë and a promise for the future. With a contemporary interior and a reimagined operational model, this space reflects our vision of offering the citizens of Korçë a unique banking experience that unites the best of tradition and innovation.
The Korçë branch joins 27 other BKT branches where the new service model has been implemented, integrating advanced digital infrastructure and data-driven solutions to deliver greater convenience, faster access, and smarter banking experiences. Supported by a highly skilled team, we are committed to leveraging innovation and cutting-edge technology to make every financial interaction more seamless, more efficient, and truly aligned with the evolving needs of individuals and businesses.”
Seyhan Pencabligil, Chief Executive Officer and Board Member at BKT stated that this project forms part of BKT’s centenary celebrations. He noted that similar renovations have been completed at branches in Durrës and Elbasan while work on restoring Vlora’s historic branch will begin in November.
Deputy Mayor Benila Themeli described the building as one of Korça’s most important monuments. She said that restoring its original appearance adds historical, architectural, and cultural value to the city: “this restoration adds to Korça a unique historical, architectural, and cultural value, making the building not only a memory of the past but also a living treasure for future generations.”
Prefect Nertil Jole praised BKT’s investment as evidence of trust in both Korça city and southeastern Albania: “the presence of a bank with a 100-year tradition and robust financial position supports not only the city but the entire county in fostering investments, supporting businesses, and strengthening the economic development of the area.”
As part of its centennial anniversary activities focused on sustainability and heritage preservation efforts across Albania—including cities where historic branches are located—BKT planted 100 plane trees in each location. This initiative highlights both its longstanding roots within Albanian society as well as ongoing environmental commitments.
BKT remains Albania’s largest bank by assets—totaling about USD 7 billion at year-end December 2024—which represents roughly one quarter (25%) https://www.bankofalbania.org/rc/doc/RAPORTI_VJETOR_2023_ang_32642.pdf#page=69) [source](/rc/doc/RAPORTI_VJETOR_2023_ang_32642.pdf#page=69) [source](https://www.bankofalbania.org/rc/doc/RAPORTI_VJETOR_2023_ang_32642.pdf#page=69) )of all assets held within Albania’s banking sector. Operating through 62 branches nationwide—and serving over 800 thousand clients—the bank offers various innovative products.
Over recent years BKT has received several awards such as “Best Bank in Albania” from publications including The Banker magazine https://www.thebanker.com/Bank-of-the-Year-Awards/Bank-of-the-Year-2023-for-Albania-Banka-Kombetare-Tregtare), Global Finance https://www.gfmag.com/magazine/may-2024/best-banks-in-central-eastern-europe-2024), Euromoney https://www.euromoney.com/article/2bglk5h88x1m6tb9x0nls/opinion/best-bank-in-albania-2023-banka-kombetare-tregtare), EMEA Finance https://emeafinance.com/news/best-banks-and-financial-institutions-in-cee-cis-2019-winners-announced.html),and Finance Central Europe http://www.financecentraleurope.com/news/fullstory.php/aid/4295/Central_European_Banking_Awards_2018:_CEE_Bank_of_the_Year_Winners.html). The sole shareholder is Çalık Holding—a conglomerate founded in Istanbul that operates across energy , construction , textiles , mining ,and finance industries .
